Overview and Clinical Significance

CA 125 (Cancer Antigen 125) is a tumor marker primarily associated with ovarian cancer, but it can also be elevated in endometrial, peritoneal, and fallopian tube cancers. It is a glycoprotein found in epithelial tissues, and its levels are often monitored for cancer diagnosis, treatment response, and recurrence detection.

Clinical Significance

• Ovarian Cancer Detection & Monitoring: CA 125 is commonly used to track ovarian cancer progression, though it is not a definitive diagnostic tool.
• Other Malignancies & Non-Cancerous Conditions: Elevated CA 125 levels can also be seen in endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and pregnancy, leading to false positives.
• Treatment Response & Prognostic Value: A decline in CA 125 levels during treatment often indicates positive therapeutic response, while an increase may suggest disease progression.
• Limitations & Complementary Testing: CA 125 is not specific to ovarian cancer, so it is often combined with imaging studies and other biomarkers for a more accurate diagnosis.

CA 125 is a key biomarker for ovarian and gynecological cancers, influencing diagnostic accuracy, treatment monitoring, and prognostic evaluations.

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